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How to Find Out If You Have a Criminal Record

According to the Wall Street Journal, roughly 70 million—or 30 percent—of American adults have some sort of criminal record. If you have ever accepted an official police caution, pleaded guilty or have been found guilty in a criminal court, there’s a chance you may have a criminal record. If you are uncertain, not to worry. Here’s your complete guide to finding out if you have a criminal record and what to do in the case that you do.

Why Understanding Your Criminal Record Is Important

Employers, insurers and other people may ask you for details of your criminal record.

You may not realized exactly what is on your criminal record, in the case that you have one.

Your actual/current criminal record could be different than what you believe it is.

How to Find out About Your Criminal Record

Depending on your specific circumstances, there are basic ways of finding out your criminal records when it comes to disclosure purposes. Order any paperwork related to your criminal case. In most states, a person has a right to order their criminal record. It’s possible this could cost you some money and may even require you to appear in person to receive the documents. You can also request copies of the court file, also known as a “docket,” that relate to your case. Once you have all the relevant paperwork, it’s best to consult an attorney to determine if there is a criminal charge document on file for you.

3 Things to Know About Criminal Charges

Even if your case was dismissed, expunged or sealed, it’s possible you were still charged with a criminal offense.

You may be accused of a crime without being arrested. Make sure you know what it is you were charged with.

If a charge was brought against you by an acquaintance (a spouse, family member or significant other), it’s possible you were still charged with a crime even if the charges were later dropped.

If you are unsure of where you stand in terms of a past criminal charge, the expert legal team at Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A. can help. Since 1980, we have passionately provided quality legal representation to residents of West Pasco County charged with a variety of criminal offenses—traffic cases, battery/assault, DUI’s, city/county ordinance violations, drugs and narcotics and felonies. Call us today at (727) 478-4125 or complete our simple criminal intake form online to get started right away.